Daily News Brief

*) Gaza truce talks resume as Israel kills 30 in fresh strikes Talks for a Gaza ceasefire and hostage release are back on, Israel confirmed, with Qatar mediating the high-stakes negotiations. Meanwhile, Gaza's civil defence reports over thirty killed in fresh air strikes, including 11 members of the al Ghoula family—seven of them children. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has issued "detailed instructions" for the ongoing efforts, according to Israeli officials. *) UN condemn Israel over violations of peace agreements The UN peacekeeping mission in Lebanon-UNIFIL has condemned Israel for destroying a Lebanese army observation tower and a Blue Line marker. Calling it a "flagrant violation" of UN Resolution 1701, UNIFIL urged restraint to preserve peace. Since October, Israel’s military actions have resulted in over 4,000 Lebanese deaths, with 16,600 wounded. With 383 ceasefire violations reported, tensions remain high as calls grow for adherence to international agreements. *) Suspect in Germany market attack was involved in seven prior cases: report A suspect in the Magdeburg Christmas market attack, Taleb-Al-Abdulmohsen, had prior run-ins with German authorities, media reveal. Linked to seven investigations since 2023, the 50-year-old Saudi-born psychiatrist allegedly issued threats online and targeted a lawyer and staff. Despite a risk assessment, no alert reached his employer. The December 20 attack left five dead and over 200 injured. Detained days later, Abdulmohsen, described as anti-Muslim and far-right-leaning, remains under arrest. *) Serbia records hottest year on record Serbia experienced its hottest year on record in 2024, with average temperatures exceeding previous records by a significant margin. The country faced a series of heatwaves throughout the summer, contributing to a sharp rise in temperatures. The extreme heat aligns with global trends, as 2024 is set to be the warmest year on record globally, according to the United Nations. Climate scientists attribute this unprecedented heat to human-induced global warming, which has fueled a rise in extreme weather events worldwide. *) Austria's chancellor steps down after failed coalition negotiations Austria faces a political shakeup as Chancellor Karl Nehammer announces his resignation after coalition talks with the Social Democrats collapsed. Nehammer cited irreconcilable differences in a video message and pledged an "orderly transition." It follows a failed attempt to form a centrist government excluding the far-right Freedom Party or FPO which won 28.8 percent of the vote. Critics warn of potential risks to democracy if the FPO joins forces with Nehammer's conservative People's Party.

*) US plans '$8B arms deal' with Israel amid Gaza genocide The Biden administration has informally notified the US Congress of a proposed 8 billion dollars arms deal with Israel that includes munitions for fighter jets and attack helicopters alongside artillery shells, According to Axios, the US military backing to Israel has totalled more than 200 billion dollars since the creation of the country on the historic Palestinian lands. Washington provides 3.8 billion dollars annually to Israel which has killed over 45,000 Palestinians since October 2023. *) US says no plans for army base in Ayn al Arab as Syria FM tours region The US military has denied plans to build a new base in Syria's Ayn al Arab near the Turkish border. Videos showing trucks carrying construction materials sparked the rumours, but officials dismissed them. Pentagon spokesperson Sabrina Singh said, "There are no plans to build a US base in Kobani." Türkiye has repeatedly criticised US cooperation with the YPG, an extension of the PKK terror group. *) Mike Johnson re-elected as US House speaker Republican Mike Johnson was re-elected US House Speaker on the first ballot in a 218-215 vote. The newly-elected 119th US Congress began, with Republicans in full control of both chambers for the first time since 2019. Johnson was unanimously nominated by his party to retain the gavel shortly after the November 5 elections. *) German airports hit by IT outage, long queues at border control A nationwide IT outage has disrupted border control systems at German airports, causing long queues for passengers from outside the Schengen zone. Federal police manually processed travellers, with no immediate explanation for the issue. Airports like Frankfurt and Berlin reported significant delays for non-Schengen arrivals. *) Chinese BYD tops Tesla in fourth quarter, delivers record EV vehicles Chinese automaker BYD outpaced Tesla in the fourth quarter, delivering about 600,000 EVs compared to Tesla which delivered less than 495,000. For 2024, BYD delivered 1.76 million EVs, narrowly trailing Tesla’s 1.79 million. Both companies reported record-breaking sales for the year.

*) UN condemns Israeli attacks on Gaza hospitals, demands safe zones The UN has strongly condemned Israeli attacks on Gaza hospitals, demanding they remain "off limits." UN deputy spokesman Farhan Haq says over twelve-thousand-people require urgent medical evacuation, adding that the impact of Israel's evacuation orders have affected over eighty-percent of Gaza. Haq called for media freedoms to be upheld and urged the removal of barriers against journalists. *) Suicides rise among Israeli soldiers amid Gaza war Twenty-eight soldiers have committed suicide since the start of the Gaza war in October twenty-twenty-three, surpassing last year’s toll, according to the Israeli military. A total of eight-hundred-ninety-one soldiers have died and five-thousand-five-hundred-sixty-nine injured during the conflict, with three-hundred-sixty-three deaths in twenty-twenty-four alone. In response, the army has bolstered mental health support, including a twenty-four-seven helpline and expanded staff. *) 'Security service' blocks South Korea officials from arresting Yoon South Korean investigators seeking to arrest impeached President Yoon Suk-yeol are being confronted by "security service" members at his residence after an earlier stand-off with a military unit. Corruption Investigation Office investigators and police officials entered his residence earlier on Friday in an attempt to execute their warrant to detain Yoon. Investigators began executing a warrant for Yoon arrest over his failed martial law bid, the first time the country has ever sought to arrest a sitting leader. Yoon’s legal team slammed the warrant as "illegal," pledging to fight back. *) US probes Tesla truck explosion outside Trump Hotel Las Vegas authorities are investigating an explosion involving a Tesla Cybertruck outside the Trump Hotel. Initial findings suggest the driver, suspected to be Matthew Livelsberger, may have died by suicide before the vehicle exploded. Livelsberger served in the Army since two-thousand-six and was deployed to Afghanistan twice and served in other countries like Ukraine and Georgia. Meanwhile, the FBI has stated there is no definitive link between this incident and a separate vehicular attack that occurred in New Orleans on New Year's Day. *) Türkiye to protect all 'aggrieved groups' in Syria Türkiye remains committed to protecting all "aggrieved groups" in Syria, Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan has said. Addressing a joint press conference in Ankara, Fidan declared Türkiye’s role as a guardian for minorities, including Nusayris, Alevis, Yazidis, and Christians. Underlining Türkiye's support for over three-million Syrian refugees since two-thousand-eleven, Fidan stressed efforts to ensure their safety and promote Syria's future peace. He also called for international backing in Syria’s reconstruction and reaffirmed Türkiye's readiness to aid in securing the country's borders and handling Daesh detainees.

*) Israel strikes southern Gaza, kills at least 10 Palestinians At least ten Palestinians, including women and children, were killed in an Israeli strike on a tent sheltering displaced families in southern Gaza's Al-Mawasi area, medics report. The attack on the site, designated as a humanitarian zone in Khan Younis, also left fifteen others wounded. *) Israel's war depletes Gaza's population by 6 percent Gaza's population has dropped six-percent over fifteen-months of war, with over fifty-five-thousand presumed dead and one-hundred-thousand fleeing, reports the Palestinian Central Bureau of Statistics. Devastation has left twenty-two-percent of residents facing critical food insecurity, including three-thousand-five-hundred children at risk of starvation. Israel stands accused of genocide, as the International Court of Justice demands action to prevent further atrocities. *) Death toll rises to 15 in New Orleans truck attack The death toll in a truck attack in New Orleans has risen to 15, according to officials and thirty-five others were wounded when the vehicle plowed into a crowd during New Year celebrations. The FBI is investigating the attack as terrorism and believes the driver, identified as Shamsud-Din Jabbar, may not have acted alone. Authorities are investigating potential accomplices and have found evidence suggesting possible explosive devices were planted before the attack. Governor Jeff Landry declared a state of emergency and mobilised additional law enforcement. *) French troops to leave Ivory Coast in 2025 Big changes are underway in Ivory Coast as President Alassane Ouattara announces the withdrawal of French troops after decades of military presence. Starting January twenty-twenty-five, France’s Port Bouet battalion will transition to Ivorian control. It is another step in West Africa’s push for greater autonomy amid rising anti-French sentiment. France, now ousted from over seventy-percent of African countries where it once had troops, faces a major recalibration of its influence across the continent. *) Pakistan and India exchange nuclear facility and prisoner lists In a step towards transparency, Pakistan and India exchanged lists of nuclear facilities and prisoners, as per longstanding agreements. Pakistan shared details of two-hundred-and-sixty-six Indian prisoners, including two-hundred-and-seventeen fishermen, while India listed four-hundred-and-sixty-two Pakistani detainees, with eighty-one being fishermen. Both nations reiterated calls for swift repatriation of those who have completed sentences. Nuclear site details were exchanged under the 1988 pact, a tradition upheld since 1992.

*) Israeli invasion in Gaza claims first civilian casualty of 2025 The New Year dawns tragically for Palestinians as Israeli forces escalate in Gaza. An air strike hit the Abu Dhaher family home in Bureij camp, killing eight-year-old Adam Farhallah—the first Palestinian civilian casualty of twenty-twenty-five. Meanwhile, National Campaign to Retrieve Martyrs' Bodies, a non-governmental organisation said Israel held the bodies of one-hundred-ninety-eight Palestinians in twenty-twenty-four. Separately Israeli media alleges that Hamas has proposed a week-long ceasefire, offering to provide a list of Israeli captives by the fourth day, awaiting Israel’s response on extending peace or resuming conflict. *) South Korea warns against obstructing Yoon Suk-yeol's arrest South Korean authorities have warned that anyone obstructing the arrest of impeached President Yoon Suk-yeol could face prosecution. Supporters gathered outside his Seoul residence as officials pledged to enforce the arrest warrant by January-six. Yoon, stripped of his duties and facing insurrection charges, could face life imprisonment or the death penalty. His legal team has challenged the warrant, calling it “illegal.” *) Europe's Russian gas era ends as Ukraine transit stops Russian gas supplies to Europe through Ukraine ceased on New Year's Day as a five-year transit deal expired. It marks the end of a decades-long era of Russian dominance in the European gas market. The move comes as Europe has significantly reduced its reliance on Russian energy following the war in Ukraine. While the immediate market impact may be limited, the loss of this crucial supply route has significant geopolitical implications for both Russia and Europe. The halt in gas flows will have a significant impact on countries like Moldova, which relied on this pipeline. *) Thousands in Bangladesh call for prosecution of ousted PM Hasina Thousands rallied at the iconic Shaheed Minar in Dhaka, demanding justice for victims of Bangladesh’s July uprising. The "March for Unity," led by students, called for ousted PM Sheikh Hasina’s prosecution and a ban on her Awami League party. Hasina fled to India on August-five amid escalating violence, leaving behind a fractured nation. Nobel laureate Muhammad Yunus's interim government now seeks international support for justice, while Hasina dismisses charges as a “political witch hunt.” *) US military court rules 9/11 plea deals can proceed A US military appeals court upheld plea deals for 9/11 mastermind Khalid Sheikh Mohammed and two accomplices. Defence Secretary Lloyd Austin had tried to invalidate the agreements, but a judge ruled he acted too late. The deals could spare the trio the death penalty in exchange for guilty pleas. Meanwhile, the Pentagon repatriated a Guantanamo detainee to Tunisia, marking another chapter in the detention facility’s controversial history, as 26 inmates remain.

*) Israel's Gaza invasion amounts to ethnic cleansing — report Israel's invasion in northern Gaza, including the destruction of hospitals, amounts to "ethnic cleansing," says the Tel Aviv-based media outlet-Haaretz. In its editorial article, the paper criticised the Israeli army's tactics as an effort to depopulate the area, violating the Fourth Geneva Convention's wartime hospital protections and forcing displaced Palestinians south for medical care. *) UN official urges global medical professionals to boycott Israel Francesca Albanese, UN Special Rapporteur on Palestine, is urging global medical professionals to cut ties with Israel, condemning the destruction of Gaza's healthcare system. Albanese also called for the release of detained Palestinian doctor Hussam Abu Safiya, amplifying the Free-Doctor-Hussan-Abu-Safiya-campaign. *) Court issues arrest warrant for South Korea's Yoon Suk-yeol A South Korean court has issued an arrest warrant for suspended President Yoon Suk-yeol over his brief and contentious bid to impose martial law. The Seoul Western District Court approved the warrant, requested by the Joint Investigation Headquarters, marking the nation’s first-ever arrest warrant for an incumbent leader. Yoon now faces criminal investigation for possible insurrection charges. *) Russia and Ukraine swap 300 prisoners of war Russia and Ukraine have exchanged three-hundred prisoners of war, according to the Russian Defence Ministry. One-hundred-fifty-Russian servicemen have been returned and are receiving medical and psychological support in Belarus. The exchange, facilitated by the United Arab Emirates-saw the return of One-hundred-fifty-Ukrainian personnel as well. While Moscow has announced the exchange, Ukrainian authorities have yet to confirm the news. *) Syria appoints first female to hold keys to the money Syria's interim government has appointed the first female governor of the central bank in over 70 years. Maysaa Sabrine steps into the role after Bashar Assad's December 8 ousting, replacing Mohammed Issam Hazime. Since then, the bank has taken steps to liberalise an economy that was heavily controlled by the state, including cancelling the need for pre-approvals for imports and exports and tight controls on the use of foreign currency. Despite holding 26 tonnes of gold, foreign reserves have plunged to two-hundred-million dollars, a far cry from pre-war levels of eighteen-billion-dollars—all under the shadow of US sanctions.

*) Israel detains Palestinians in critical health condition in Gaza The Health Ministry in Gaza says Israeli forces detained four Palestinian patients who were being transferred for medical care. They were on their way from the Indonesian Hospital in northern Gaza to al-Shifa Hospital in Gaza City, a transfer organised by the World Health Organization. Out of the ten patients being transported, four were detained, and, according to the ministry, one of them is in critical condition. *) South Korean investigators seek arrest warrant for Yoon Suk-yeol South Korea’s investigation unit is taking a historic step, seeking an arrest warrant for President Yoon Suk-yeol. The president, who’s currently suspended, is under scrutiny for declaring martial law earlier this month — a move investigators believe might qualify as insurrection. Officials say Yoon has ignored repeated requests for questioning from both the police and the anti-corruption office. This is the first time South Korea has seen such a request for a sitting president. *) Azerbaijan leader says plane shot from Russia, seeks compensation Azerbaijan is demanding answers — and compensation — from Russia after one of its passenger planes was reportedly hit by ground fire and disrupted by electronic warfare. President Ilham Aliyev spoke out about the incident, confirming that the Azerbaijan Airlines plane was damaged near Grozny, on Russian territory, and narrowly avoided disaster. He said Azerbaijan expects Russia to acknowledge what happened, hold those responsible accountable, and pay damages. *) Former US president Jimmy Carter dies at 100 Former US President Jimmy Carter has passed away at the age of 100, according to the Atlanta Journal-Constitution. Carter served as the 39th president from 1977 to 1981, defeating Gerald Ford in the 1976 election. But his time in office was cut short when he lost to Ronald Reagan in a landslide four years later. After leaving the White House, Carter lived longer than any other former US president, dedicating much of his life to humanitarian work. *) Algeria demands France to admit its colonial crimes Algerian President Abdelmadjid Tebboune has called on France to confront its colonial history. Speaking to parliament, Tebboune reflected on the country’s struggles under French rule from 1830 to 1962, emphasising that Algeria seeks no monetary compensation — just recognition. “We are pursuing the dignity of our ancestors,” he said, highlighting this as a core part of his first presidential term’s achievements and his vision for the future.

* Israeli attack on Gaza's Kamal Adwan hospital leaves it deserted — WHO The World Health Organization has confirmed that Kamal Adwan Hospital in northern Gaza is now empty after an Israeli military raid on Friday, which has forced the last major health facility in the area out of service. Expressing its outrage, the WHO stated, "Hospitals have once again become battlegrounds," condemning the attack as part of a systematic dismantling of Gaza's health system. The organisation warned that the 75,000 Palestinians remaining in northern Gaza face severe risks after over 80 days of siege, with critical healthcare no longer accessible. Dozens dead as plane bursts into flames following crash in South Korea *A Jeju Air plane from Bangkok to South Korea crashed upon landing at Muan airport, killing at least 120 people, the National Fire Agency said. Two survivors have been pulled from the wreckage as rescue efforts continue, according to the national fire agency. Footage broadcast by MBC showed the plane engulfed in flames shortly after landing, with smoke streaming from its engines. Officials believe a landing gear failure, possibly caused by a bird strike, may have led to the crash. * Over 112,000 missing Syrians probably killed in Assad prisons: rights group More than 112,000 Syrians forcibly disappeared under the Baath regime remain unaccounted for, with evidence pointing to widespread killings in detention, the Syrian Network for Human Rights reported. Following the collapse of the Baath regime on December 8, the scale of torture and extrajudicial executions in Syrian prisons has come to light. The group has documented about 136,000 cases of detention or forced disappearance during the regime's rule and reports that 24,200 prisoners have been released from detention facilities since its fall. * Over 21 killed in Sudan shelter attack by paramilitary forces At least 21 civilians were killed and 17 injured in a Rapid Support Forces drone strike on a shelter for displaced people in El Fasher, North Darfur, activists reported. The El Fasher Coordination of Resistance Committees said the attack targeted the Qouz Beina school, which housed many displaced individuals. Separately, the General Coordination of Darfur Displaced People and Refugees reported heavy artillery bombardment by the RSF on the Abu Shouk displacement camp in El Fasher, resulting in additional casualties. * Putin apologises to Aliyev over Azerbaijan Airlines plane crash tragedy Russian President Vladimir Putin has apologised to Azerbaijan's leader for a "tragic incident" after an Azerbaijani airliner crashed in Kazakhstan, killing 38 people. The Kremlin said that air defence systems were active near Grozny during a Ukrainian drone strike on Wednesday but did not confirm whether one caused the crash. On Friday, a US official and an Azerbaijani minister made separate statements blaming the crash on an external weapon.

* Israeli attack on Kamal Adwan Hospital put 'last major health facility' in northern Gaza out of service: WHO The World Health Organization (WHO) has said that the Israeli attack on the Kamal Adwan Hospital put "the last major health facility" in northern besieged Gaza out of service, calling an end to "this horror." Initial reports indicate that some key departments were severely burned and destroyed during the attack. At the same time, 60 health workers and 25 patients are in critical condition, including those on ventilators. * Hamas denies Israeli claims it was present in Gaza hospital Meanwhile, the Palestinian resistance group, Hamas, has denied Israeli claims about the presence of its members inside the hospital that was attacked by the Israeli army in the northern besieged Gaza. The group said the Israeli claims aim to justify the heinous crime committed by the occupation army by evacuating and burning all sections of the hospital as part of its plan of genocide and forced displacement. * Israel reportedly contacted Assad through WhatsApp in recent years Israel has reportedly engaged in secret communications with the ousted Bashar al Assad's regime in recent years using the messaging app WhatsApp, according to a report. The report said that Israel conducted covert operations to establish contact with al Assad and his inner circle, sending messages through Israeli intelligence agents posing as "Musa" on WhatsApp. The messages allegedly reached high-ranking Syrian regime officials in Damascus. One operation reportedly sought to negotiate a secret deal where Assad would halt the transfer of weapons to Lebanon in exchange for lifting international sanctions against his regime. * UN Security Council green-lights mandate for new Somalia mission The UN Security Council has adopted a draft resolution to establish the African Union Support and Stabilization Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM). The 15-member Council adopted the UK-led draft resolution with 14 votes in favour, and the US abstaining. The AUSSOM will replace the African Union Transition Mission in Somalia (ATMIS), whose mandate ends on December 31. * Trump urges Supreme Court to pause TikTok ban US President-elect Donald Trump has urged the US Supreme Court to pause a federal TikTok law that would ban the popular social media app or force its sale. The Republican incoming president argued that he should have time after taking office to pursue a "political resolution" to the issue. Trump said that this case presents an unprecedented, novel, and difficult tension between free-speech rights on one side and foreign policy and national security concerns on the other.

Israel kills 50 Palestinians in Gaza’s Kamal Adwan Hospital Israel has killed nearly 50 Palestinians in an overnight air strike on a building opposite the headquarters of Kamal Adwan Hospital in northern besieged Gaza, including three medical staff and workers. Their bodies were stuck under the rubble of a building opposite Kamal Adwan Hospital in the Beit Lahia Project area after Israeli warplanes bombed it. Medical staff and workers were in the targeted building where they stayed with their families. Three Palestinian babies freeze to death in Gaza The chief paediatric doctor at a southern Gaza hospital has said that three babies had died of "severe temperature drop" this week, as the war-ravaged Palestinian territory grapples with winter. In the most recent case, in Khan Younis city a three-week-old girl was brought to the emergency room with a severe temperature drop, which led to her death. The head of the hospital's paediatric services also said that a three-day-old baby and another baby, less than a month old, both died after a severe temperature drop. UN calls for peaceful resolution to ongoing violence in Mozambique UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has expressed concern about the unrest in Mozambique, urging a peaceful resolution to the ongoing crisis. He urged all political leaders and relevant national stakeholders to defuse tensions, including through meaningful dialogue and legal redress, refrain from the use of violence, and redouble efforts to seek a peaceful resolution to the ongoing crisis in a constructive manner, which is essential to the collective future of Mozambicans. Russian missile brought down Azerbaijan Airlines plane: officials Senior Azerbaijani officials have confirmed the validity of an earlier media report suggesting that an Azerbaijan Airlines plane crash near the Kazakh city of Aktau was caused by a Russian missile system. A claim dismissed by Russia. This came after Azerbaijani media, citing government sources, reported that the preliminary results of the investigation into the incident determined that the plane was attacked by a Pantsir missile system as it approached the city of Grozny. According to the report, the aircraft’s communication system was completely paralysed due to the use of Russian electronic warfare systems, which resulted in the plane disappearing from radars while in Russian airspace. Top Canadian officials to meet with Trump team on tariffs Key members of Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau's cabinet have travelled to Florida for talks with representatives of US President-elect Donald Trump as Ottawa works to avert a potentially devastating trade war. Newly appointed Finance Minister Dominic Leblanc and Foreign Minister Melanie Joly flew to Palm Beach, Florida to meet with officials from the incoming Trump administration. The meetings set for Friday will focus on Canada's efforts to combat fentanyl trafficking and irregular migration.

*) Israel kills at least 10 Palestinians in Gaza strikes Israeli air strikes in Gaza have killed at least 10 people and injured others, according to medical sources. A strike on a house in Gaza City's Zeitoun neighbourhood left five dead and 20 wounded, with fears the death toll could rise as rescue teams work to free those trapped under rubble. In a separate incident, five journalists were killed when their vehicle was struck near al-Awda Hospital in Nuseirat, central Gaza, health authorities said. *) Israel's new conditions delay Gaza ceasefire agreement: Hamas Hamas announced Israel has introduced new conditions delaying progress toward a Gaza ceasefire deal. The Palestinian resistance group cited issues related to withdrawal, ceasefire terms, prisoner exchanges, and the return of displaced people as obstacles to reaching an agreement. Despite the setbacks, Hamas stated that negotiations, mediated by Qatar and Egypt, remain serious and that the group is showing flexibility to move the process forward. *) Dozens dead, hundreds escaped in Maputo prison riot: Mozambique police A prison riot in Mozambique's capital, Maputo, has left 33 people dead and 15 injured, according to Police General Commander Bernardino Rafael. The incident led to the escape of 1,534 inmates, though 150 have since been recaptured. The riot occurred amid growing unrest following Monday's Constitutional Court ruling confirming Daniel Chapo of the ruling Mozambique Liberation Front (Frelimo) as the winner of the disputed October 9 elections. *) 'Provocations' by ousted regime led to protests in Syria – officials Protests in Syria erupted after claims of damage to a religious shrine in Aleppo, but the interim government attributed the unrest to "provocations" by elements of the deposed Bashar al Assad regime. Videos on social media circulated alleging harm to the shrine of religious figure Abu Abdullah Hasibi. However, the Interior Ministry stated the footage was "old" and circulated by "unknown groups from the period when Aleppo was liberated." The ministry reaffirmed its commitment to safeguarding religious sites, accusing those behind the videos of attempting to "sow discord" during a sensitive period for the country. *) Erdogan extends Christmas greetings, emphasises Türkiye’s inclusive values Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan extended warm Christmas wishes to Christians, expressing hopes for peace, happiness, and well-being. "On the occasion of Christmas, I extend my heartfelt congratulations to our citizens who follow the Christian faith," Erdogan said. He also underscored Türkiye’s long-standing tradition of inclusivity, affirming that no distinctions are made based on origin, race, language, religion, or sect.

Israel's Netanyahu announces return of negotiation team on Hamas prisoner talks Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has said that top negotiators have returned from Qatar for internal consultations on a potential prisoner exchange with Hamas. It follows a week of intense talks involving Mossad and military officials. Observers view Netanyahu's announcement as part of a pattern of delays in negotiations. Israel is believed to hold more than 10,300 Palestinian prisoners, while approximately 100 Israeli captives are in Gaza. Famine in war-torn Sudan spreading: Global hunger monitor The UN-backed Famine Review Committee of the Integrated Food Security Phase Classification warns that famine continues to grip Sudan, spreading to five new regions and putting another five at risk by May. Over 24.6 million Sudanese now face severe hunger, as warring factions disrupt critical aid. The report was published despite the Sudanese government’s continued disruption of the IPC’s process for analysing food shortages. On Monday, the government announced it was suspending its participation in the global hunger-monitoring system, saying the IPC issues “unreliable reports that undermine Sudan’s sovereignty and dignity”. Panamanians protest outside US embassy over Trump's Canal reclaim threat Panama protesters set fire to a picture of US President-elect Donald Trump after his call to reclaim control of the Panama Canal. Chanting "public enemy of Panama," demonstrators rallied outside the US embassy. Leaders affirmed the canal's sovereignty, rebuking Trump’s remarks about unfair fees and Chinese influence. “The canal is Panamanian, non-negotiable,” officials declared. Post-election violence in Mozambique kills at least 21 Mozambique is reeling from deadly unrest after its top court upheld Frelimo’s Daniel Chapo as president, sparking violent protests. At least 21 people, including two police officers, have died, and 236 violent acts were recorded in 24 hours. Protesters torched vehicles, attacked police units, and freed inmates, leaving the nation on edge amid escalating tensions. NASA's Parker Solar Probe makes history with sun flyby at 930°c NASA's Parker Solar Probe has made history by flying closer to the Sun than any spacecraft before. The probe successfully navigated scorching temperatures exceeding nine-hundred-and-thirty-degrees-Celsius while flying within 3.8 million miles of the solar surface, collecting valuable scientific data. It is the first of three record-breaking flybys, with the mission aiming to unravel key solar mysteries.

Gaza most dangerous place for aid delivery, says UN The UN names Gaza the world’s most perilous zone for aid delivery, as Tom Fletcher warns of a spiralling crisis. "In a record-breaking deadly year for humanitarians, Gaza tops the danger list," says the UN Under-Secretary-General for Humanitarian Affairs and Emergency Relief Coordinator's chief. Israel's-genocide-in-Gaza, now-in-its-four-hundred-and-forty-fifth-day, has killed-at-least-forty-five-thousand-three-hundred-and-seventeen-Palestinians and-wounded-one-hundred-seven-thousand-seven-hundred-and-thirteen-others. Israel admits to killing Hamas' Haniyeh for first time Israel's Defence Minister Israel Katz has revealed the assassination of ex-Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh in Tehran this July. Katz vowed to target Yemen's Houthi leadership with similar intensity, citing Israel’s prior strikes on key figures in Gaza and Lebanon. The statement marks Israel's first public admission of Haniyeh's killing, amid escalating tensions. Mangione pleads not guilty to US CEO murder case Luigi Mangione, accused of murdering a UnitedHealthcare executive, pleaded "not guilty" to state charges, including "terrorist" murder. The courtroom was packed as Mangione, handcuffed and shackled, entered. His lawyer argued that the intense media scrutiny and public support for Mangione could make a fair trial impossible. Protesters outside the courthouse expressed support for Mangione and anger at the healthcare system. Mangione faces life in prison if convicted. His next court appearance is set for February 21st. Greenland rebuffs Trump's offer to buy island Greenland’s Prime Minister Mute Egede firmly declared, "We are not for sale," in response to US President-elect Trump’s renewed interest in the Arctic island. Denmark’s opposition calls for clear resistance, while Greenland's strategic value and rich resources remain a global focus. Trump's prior bid was dismissed as "absurd," reigniting geopolitical tensions. Japan's Honda and Nissan announce merger talks Japanese auto giants Honda and Nissan announced a merger plan, aiming to create the world's third-largest automaker. The decision comes as the industry undergoes a major shift towards electric vehicles. The proposed merger would see the companies form a joint holding company, with Honda initially leading the management. However, the success of this merger hinges on the ability of both companies to navigate market challenges and effectively integrate their operations.

UNRWA chief says Israel has broken all rules of war in Gaza The UN's Philippe Lazzarini has condemned Israel's invasion of Gaza, stating that "all rules of war have been broken." The 14-month Israel's Gaza war sees escalating civilian casualties, with schools and hospitals targeted, he said. Urging a long-overdue ceasefire, Lazzarini calls for immediate action to safeguard civilians. He warned that the "world must not become numb." Israel targets homes in southern Lebanon, violating ceasefire In a sharp escalation, the Israeli military has demolished homes in southern Lebanon, defying the November 27 ceasefire. With 287 reported violations, the toll stands at 31 dead and 37 injured, official data shows. Strikes hit Kfarkela in Nabatieh and Hanin in Bint Jbeil, fueling regional tensions, Lebanon's National News Agency (NNA) has reported. Putin threatens 'destruction' on Ukraine after Kazan drone attack Russian President Vladimir Putin has vowed "massive destruction" against Ukraine after a drone strike hit a high-rise in Kazan, over 1,000 kilometres from the frontier. The escalating aerial attacks deepen tensions in the nearly three-year conflict. While Ukraine remains silent on the attack, Putin warns retaliation will bring "regret" to those targeting Russia. Putin has previously threatened to target the centre of Kiev with a hypersonic ballistic missile in response to Ukrainian attacks on Russian territory. Myanmar conflict forces more Rohingya to flee to Bangladesh In the last two months, 60,000 Rohingya have fled Myanmar's conflict-hit Rakhine state to Bangladesh, despite tightened border measures, according to an official. Bangladesh, already hosting 1.2 million refugees, urges international collaboration to stem the crisis. Officials highlight corruption at border crossings and stress Myanmar’s need to resolve internal issues through dialogue. Regional talks continue, with no immediate resolution in sight. Google faces antitrust action in Japan Japan's competition watchdog is poised to find Google guilty of antitrust violations, according to Nikkei Asia. The Japan Fair Trade Commission is expected to issue a cease and desist order, following investigations into Google's search services. It comes amid growing global scrutiny of Google's dominance, with similar actions taken in Europe and the US. The US Department of Justice recently argued that Google should divest its Chrome browser to break its search monopoly.

*) Israel bombs Kamal Adwan Hospital in northern Gaza The Israeli army launched a heavy bombardment on Kamal Adwan Hospital in Beit Lahiya, northern Gaza, causing extensive damage, WAFA news agency reported. Medical sources said that the hospital faced intense shelling, including bombs, artillery, and sniper fire, targeting the facility indiscriminately. The assault severely damaged critical infrastructure, including power generators and various hospital departments, further straining Gaza’s already overwhelmed healthcare system. *) Pope Francis slams Israel's 'cruelty' after Gaza air strike Pope Francis has renewed his condemnation of Israeli air strikes on Gaza, calling the violence "cruelty" and saying, "This is not war; it touches the heart." The comments follow Israeli air strikes on Friday that killed at least 25 Palestinians and come a day after an Israeli minister criticised the pontiff for suggesting a global inquiry into whether the violence constitutes genocide. Francis addressed the issue during his annual Christmas meeting with Vatican cardinals, highlighting the plight of children in Gaza as a pressing humanitarian concern. *) Trump threatens to demand control of Panama Canal US President-elect Donald Trump has threatened to demand the return of control over the Panama Canal to Washington, criticising "unfair fees" imposed on American ships using the vital waterway. Trump also warned of China's increasing influence near the canal, citing its strategic importance for US trade between the Atlantic and Pacific oceans. "Our Navy and Commerce have been treated unfairly. The fees are ridiculous," Trump wrote on Truth Social, vowing to end what he called a "rip-off" of the US. *) Pakistan rejects US claims on ballistic missile programme as 'baseless' Pakistan has dismissed claims by a senior US official about its ballistic missile programme, calling them baseless and harmful to bilateral relations. Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mumtaz Zahra Baloch described the allegations as "unfounded, devoid of rationality and sense of history." The remarks came in response to US Deputy National Security Adviser Jon Finer's statement that Pakistan was developing a long-range missile capable of striking targets beyond South Asia, posing an "emerging threat" to the United States. *) Syrian interim government appoints new foreign minister The Syrian Interim Government has appointed Asaad Hassan al Shaibani as its new foreign minister, the ruling General Command announced. Al Shaibani previously led Political Affairs for Idlib’s civilian administration, where he managed diplomatic relations with foreign governments and institutions. He also oversaw coordination efforts with UN agencies and international aid organisations during his tenure.

*) Israeli air strike levels Gaza home, killing 10, mostly children At least 10 Palestinians, including seven children, were killed and another eight wounded in an Israeli air strike on a home in northern Gaza as Tel Aviv's genocidal war on the besieged coastal enclave continues unabated. The Palestinian Civil Defense said in a statement that seven of the 10 victims killed in the Israeli attack on evening were children. A medical source in the al-Ahli Baptist Hospital in Gaza City said that the bodies of 10 people and eight others wounded were brought to the hospital after the Israeli airstrike on the home in the Jabalia Nazla neighbourhood. *) Israeli snipers 'authorised' to shoot civilians in Gaza — report According to a media report, Israeli soldiers have revealed that the army killed Palestinian civilians who entered previously targeted buildings in Gaza, The Haaretz newspaper in Israel said the army "does not routinely update its list of targets in Gaza, nor does it indicate to forces on the ground which structures are no longer being used" by fighters. "As a result, anyone – including noncombatants – who enters such a building risks being attacked," it said. A discharged officer from the 252nd Division said snipers were authorised to consider civilians entering specific areas as fighters and that they were killing civilians there who are then counted as ‘terrorists’. *) Car rams German Christmas market in suspected attack, killing two A car has ploughed into a busy outdoor Christmas market in the eastern German city of Magdeburg, killing two people and wounding 50 in what authorities say was a suspected attack. The car driver was arrested. Regional government spokesperson Matthias Schuppe and city spokesperson Michael Reif said they suspected it was deliberate. Reif stated there were "numerous injured," though he did not provide an exact number. *) US House approves bill to avert looming government shutdown The US House of Representatives has voted to avert a government shutdown with just hours to spare, with Democrats joining Republicans to advance a funding bill keeping the lights on through mid-March. Lawmakers sent a package to the Senate that would keep federal agencies running through mid-March. Although the House is run by the Republicans, who introduced the bill, 34 of the party's backbenchers voted against it, while almost every Democrat was a yes. *) Ukrainian missile attack kills six in Russia's Kursk Six people, including one child, were killed in a Ukrainian missile attack on the town of Rylsk in Russia's Kursk region. Ten wounded people, including a 13-year-old, were taken to a local hospital with minor injuries. Authorities said that those responsible for the attack would receive "well-deserved retribution".

*) 'Nowhere is safe, no one is spared' in Gaza — MSF report A new report by Doctors Without Borders, titled "Gaza: Life in a Death Trap," has called for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza to save lives and ensure the flow of humanitarian aid. The organisation has also demanded an end to Israel's targeted and indiscriminate attacks on civilians and called on its allies to act swiftly to protect Palestinian lives and uphold international law. Highlighting the devastating impact of repeated Israeli military attacks on Palestinian civilians over the past 14 months, MSF has said people in Gaza are struggling to survive apocalyptic conditions, but nowhere is safe, no one is spared, and there is no exit from this shattered enclave. *) Israeli strikes on Gaza shelters kill at least 20 Palestinians At least 20 Palestinians have been killed and over 30 others wounded in Israeli air strikes on two schools sheltering displaced people and a house in Gaza, yesterday evening. Most of the victims were women and children in the attack that targeted the Dar al-Arqam and Shaaban al-Rayes schools and a house in the Tuffah neighbourhood. The attack has caused massive destruction in the two schools and nearby residential buildings. Israel has systematically targeted civilian facilities, including schools, hospitals, and places of worship, in its ongoing offensive on Gaza. *) Türkiye urges swift, decisive action to tackle Sudan crisis at UN meeting Türkiye's permanent representative to the UN has urged the international community to take swift action to address the escalating conflict and humanitarian crisis in Sudan. Speaking at the Security Council Ahmet Yildiz highlighted the dire situation in Sudan, where "over 11 million people are displaced and hundreds of thousands have lost their lives." The conflict has also led to the destruction of vital infrastructure, including health facilities. Türkiye reiterated its commitment to Sudan's "unity, territorial integrity, sovereignty and independence from outside interference." *) Pakistan developing missiles that could hit US — White House official A senior White House official has claimed that Pakistan is developing long-range ballistic missile capabilities that eventually could allow it to strike targets outside of South Asia, including in the United States. In his stunning revelation about the one time close US partner, Deputy National Security Adviser Jon Finer claimed Islamabad's conduct raised "real questions" about the aims of its ballistic missile programme. Finer told the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace audience that candidly, it's hard for us to see Pakistan's actions as anything other than an emerging threat to the United States. *) UNGA seeks ICJ opinion on Israel's obligations to aid Palestinians The UN General Assembly has overwhelmingly approved a resolution asking the International Court of Justice to assess Israel's obligations to assist Palestinians, amid accusations the Israeli government systematically hinders Gaza aid. The UN's full membership voted to request an ICJ advisory opinion, which, though not binding, can heighten pressure on countries. Norway brought the resolution seeking an advisory opinion from the UN's top court, which was co-sponsored by Egypt, Jordan, Qatar, and Saudi Arabia, among others. It won backing from 137 countries, 12 of which objected, and 22 abstained.

*) Gaza mediators intensify ceasefire efforts as Israel continues to kill Palestinians The United States and Arab mediators are working to finalise an agreement between Israel and Hamas to halt the 14-month-old war on Gaza. A Palestinian official close to the negotiations said mediators have narrowed gaps on most terms of the proposed deal. Sources in Cairo indicated that an agreement, including a ceasefire and prisoner exchange, could be finalised in the coming days. *) US has no Palestine policy, follows Israel's lead — former official A former senior State Department official accused the US of lacking a policy on Palestine, adding that its actions are largely based on Israeli preferences. Mike Casey, who resigned as deputy political counsellor in Gaza in July, voiced criticisms in an interview with The Guardian newspaper. "We don't have a policy on Palestine. We just do what the Israelis want us to do," he said. *) Israel strikes power plants, port, oil facility in Yemen Israel has carried out air strikes on power plants, a port, and an oil facility in Yemen, escalating tensions with Houthi fighters, according to media reports. Houthi-aligned Al-Masirah TV reported that the strikes targeted two power plants in the capital Sanaa, damaged an oil facility, and hit the port of Hodeidah. “The enemy launched four aggressive raids targeting the port and two raids on the oil facility,” the channel stated, as quoted by Al Jazeera. *) Türkiye vows continued support for Lebanon, Syria Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has reiterated Türkiye’s support for Lebanon’s “unity and peace,” urging the international community to pressure Israel to comply with last month’s ceasefire agreement with Lebanon. Speaking alongside Lebanese Prime Minister Najib Mikati, Erdogan condemned efforts to destabilise Lebanon and called for Israel to compensate for damages caused during recent escalations, stressing Lebanon’s security as vital for regional stability. Erdogan also emphasised the shared commitment of Türkiye and Lebanon to aiding Syria’s recovery, urging all stakeholders to contribute to ensuring stability in the war-torn nation. *) US Fed cuts key rate, remains cautious over economic outlook next year The US Federal Reserve has reduced its benchmark policy rate by 0.25 points to a range of 4.25–4.50 percent, citing inflation concerns and uncertainty over President-elect Donald Trump's economic agenda. Announcing the decision, the Fed indicated a slower pace of rate cuts ahead, forecasting just two quarter-point reductions in 2025, down from an earlier projection of four. Policymakers also raised their inflation outlook for 2024 from 2.1 percent to 2.5 percent, reflecting heightened caution about the economic landscape.

Israeli strikes continue to pound Gaza, kill 8 Palestinians. Hamas calls Gaza ceasefire talks 'positive'. Türkiye condemns Israel's Syria actions. Ukraine kills Russia's chemical weapons chief; Moscow vows revenge. Russian bill could remove Taliban from 'terror' list.

*) Türkiye holds the key for Syria's future: Trump US President-elect Donald Trump has expressed uncertainty about post-Assad Syria but emphasised that Türkiye will “hold the key” to the nation. Speaking at his Mar-a-Lago estate, Trump refrained from commenting directly on the withdrawal of US troops from northeastern Syria, but praised Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan. Trump also condemned ousted Syrian President Bashar al-Assad as a "butcher" for his actions against children and called Türkiye a "major force" in the region. *) Israel committing genocide in Gaza, German rights group's analysis finds A Berlin-based human rights group, the European Center for Constitutional and Human Rights, has said Israel is committing genocide against Palestinians in Gaza. In a statement, the group said its independent research and analysis of Israel’s actions in Gaza led to a "legally sound argument" that genocide is taking place. The group highlighted that numerous reports, commentaries, and judgments support this conclusion, further underscoring the severity of the situation. *) Gaza truce talks 'productive', 'small differences' remain — US The US has described recent talks on a potential ceasefire and prisoner exchange deal between Israel and Hamas as "productive," while acknowledging that a few key differences remain. State Department spokesperson Matthew Miller said during a press briefing that negotiations have progressed in recent days but added "a very small number of differences" still need to be resolved. "We have continued to try to work with the other mediators to narrow the differences," Miller stated, underscoring ongoing efforts to reach an agreement. *) More than 12 mass graves discovered in Syria's Daraa More than 12 mass graves have been discovered in Syria's Daraa Governorate, containing remains believed to be of civilians killed by the regime of ousted leader Bashar al Assad. The graves were uncovered following the recent collapse of the Baath regime earlier this month, as search and survey operations continue across the country. Efforts to locate and document mass graves are ongoing as Syria begins to confront the scale of atrocities committed under Assad's rule. *) Mystery drones over 8 US states spark fear and calls for action Mysterious drones spotted across at least eight US states are sparking unease and national debate, with sightings reported near critical sites, including an Air Force base. At a press conference in Mar-a-Lago, President-elect Donald Trump claimed, "Something strange is going on" with the East Coast drones and accused the government of withholding information. The buzzing crafts have been seen from Massachusetts to Ohio, leaving communities unsettled and prompting lawmakers to demand urgent action.